Fiat is taking the ‘New World’ by storm and the hottest thing since the Vespa scooter has landed in America – the Fiat 500c Cabrio.

The first “Nuova Cinquecento” debuted in the summer of 1957 as a cabriolet model and offered a distinctive canvas roof that opened right down the middle to the rear of the vehicle. Fast forward 54 years and Fiat builds on the brand’s spirit of building world-class small cars that ignite a “spirit of the times through simple design.”

Sporting unique but modern Italian styling, the new 500c continues Fiat’s legacy of all-season performance, fuel-efficient powertrain options and interior comfort for four. We received quite a few stares just about everywhere we went in the little cabrio, a very metro-friendly car. Street parking is a snap and visibility all around is good top up or down.

Speaking of the top, the new 500c features dual-layered cloth that is power operated and can be rolled back into numerous positions at speeds up to 60 mph. Even with the top fully closed the Fiat offers very good head room, although rear seat space is a bit tight and should be reserved for the youngsters. The Cabrio is not a true convertible as only the roof retracts – the side supports (A-, B- and C-pillars) remain in place.

Fiat brings the 500c to the U.S. in two models: Pop or Lounge. Pop is designed for individuals who want Italian style and efficiency (read base model) while Lounge reflects those with a more fashion-oriented lifestyle and are attracted to premium amenities.

There are more than 500,000 ways to stylize and personalize the new Fiat 500c and a full line of Fiat accessories is available through MOPAR outlets. Fiat has also recently announced a special Gucci edition 500.

In the short time the Cinquecento has been available it has already earned some honors including being named one of the Top 10 Back-to-School Cars by kbb.com.

“In just a few short months, the Fiat 500 already is becoming a favorite with young buyers who recognize all that the new Fiat has to offer,” said Laura Soave, Head of the FIAT Brand for North America. “The new Fiat 500 is affordable transportation that is safe, practical and with a 38 mpg highway rating, easy on the wallet for high school and college students on a budget. It also has great looks and performance.”

David was editor of AutoworldToday at Today Newspapers in the Dallas suburbs until its closing in 2009. He was also webmaster and photographer/videographer. He got started doing photography for the newspaper while working as a firefighter/paramedic in one of his towns, and began working for the newspaper group full-time in 1992.David entered automotive journalism in 1998 and became AutoworldToday editor in 2002. On the average, he drives some 100 new vehicles each year. He enjoys the great outdoors and as an avid fly fisherman, as is his spouse Tish. He especially enjoys nature photography and is inspired by the works of Ansel Adams.